Best Upper Strut Mount Brand?

[Nukeman7]

I am getting ready to replace the upper strut mounts on our 2003 Honda Element as the rubber insert bushings are cracked and squeeking. The KYB Excel-G struts are in great shape, as are the OEM springs. Monroe upper strut mounts were used when I changed out the original struts in 2015.

Based upon RockAuto's listings, I have narrowed the brands down to KYB, Beck-Arnley, Monroe or Gabriel. I am concerned that KYB and Gabriel lists the same part for both sides, while Monroe and Beck-Arnley have different mounts for left or right (as does Honda OEM). The Honda parts are more than twice the price and failed in ~10 years like the current Monroe mounts.

Which strut mount does the collective BITOG community recommend?

 

[Urshurak776]

I tend to lean towards Beck-Arnley. Never had an issue with any of their parts, whether mechanical or electrical. Always lasted just as long or longer than OEM in my Hyundais/Kia's. YMMV, but I have no hesitation in recommending their parts.

 

[edyvw]

I am getting ready to replace the upper strut mounts on our 2003 Honda Element as the rubber insert bushings are cracked and squeeking. The KYB Excel-G struts are in great shape, as are the OEM springs. Monroe upper strut mounts were used when I changed out the original struts in 2015.

Based upon RockAuto's listings, I have narrowed the brands down to KYB, Beck-Arnley, Monroe or Gabriel. I am concerned that KYB and Gabriel lists the same part for both sides, while Monroe and Beck-Arnley have different mounts for left or right (as does Honda OEM). The Honda parts are more than twice the price and failed in ~10 years like the current Monroe mounts.

Which strut mount does the collective BITOG community recommend?

KYB.

 

[Andyd95]

Of the list KYB, however OE mounts would be better

 

[DCDG]

Of the list KYB, however OE mounts would be better

Depending on the vehicle Japanese to speak isn't KYB an OE supplier?

 

[Andyd95]

Depending on the vehicle Japanese to speak isn't KYB an OE supplier?

Yes but the aftermarket replacement is far different

OE Honda mount probably made in Japan, I’m sure the KYB mount is made in China and is more of a one size fits all.

 

[14Accent]

I couldn't find any images of your exact mount, but a quick generic search of B/A strut mounts on eBay showed Taiwan as the COO on every actual box image I could find. Not necessarily a bad thing, but unlike some B/A parts I wouldn't be hoping for something OE quality.

 

[D60]

Note B/A used to be good stuff but today is anyone's guess (if you get old stock it's probably good). B/A falls under the Apollo Global cluster putting it with such wonderful peers as Monroe (gag), Rancho (junk), Walker exhaust (cheap), Thrush (junk), Fail-Pro (leaks r us), MOOG (once good, no more) and others like Sealed Power and Federal Mogul

But, of the OP's choices I'd probably still chance B/A. If it looks junky, it is and then be prepared to return it.